Germanium
Fast Fibre-Optic Internet thanks to Germanium
Characteristics of Germanium
Germanium is one of the rarest metals on Earth. The silver glossy element melts at just under 940 °C and boils at 2,820 °C. According to the latest definition, germanium is considered a semiconductor. Its density anomaly repeatedly amazes scientists: The density of germanium is lower in solid condition than in liquid, so the metal weighs more in liquid than in solid condition. The inert technology metal is widespread, but only occurs in very low concentrations.
Ge
Applications for Germanium
For a long time, germanium was the leading material in electronics. Today, it is mainly used in fiber optics and constitutes an essential component of modern communication technology. Germanium can also be used for the production of infrared permeability optics. Therefore, it is indispensable for the production of night vision devices and thermal imaging cameras. The raw material is also used in semiconductors, recyclable PET bottles, high-performance processors, detectors for X-rays and photovoltaics.
In the field of fiber optic cables, it is assumed that the demand for germanium will increase eightfold by 2030.
In the field of fiber optic cables, it is assumed that the demand for germanium will increase eightfold by 2030.
Physical Asset Germanium
Worth Knowing
For germanium, supply bottlenecks are predicted: Due to new high-tech developments, the Fraunhofer Institute for System and Innovation Research expects a significant increase in germanium demand by 2030.
In the field of fiber optic cables, it is even assumed that the demand for germanium will increased eightfold. A significant increase in demand, which is likely to be tantamount to a serious increase in prices.
You can find out more about Germanium on our information page germanium.de.
Price History
Note: The graph shows only the price history of the metal in the leading trading form, but not a concrete price. This always depends on the delivery quantity and other factors. The graph is for orientation only. We would love to tell you more in a nonbinding information talk.